How do biometric fingerprint readers work?
Are you familiar with unlocking a phone using fingerprint identification? We’ve seen an increase in fingerprint scanning technology, with rapid growth predicted over the next few years. It’s not surprising, due to their 10/10 accuracy and speed.
Human fingerprints are all unique, which is why these fingerprint scanning devices are an accurate and secure method of authentication. They can be used in industries including law enforcement, hospitality, healthcare and more!
How do biometric fingerprint readers work?
These devices work by capturing the pattern of a human fingerprint. The information is then processed using the device’s analysis/matching software. The fingerprint will be compared to the list of registered prints on file, granting access to the external device when a match is made.
The readers can also be used to create a database of new prints, for example when scanning suspect’s prints in the law enforcement industry. This is a great way to securely capture personal data that can then be loaded into another system.
The HID DigitalPersona 4500 Fingerprint Reader is a compact USB peripheral, perfect for individual desk top users or multiple users in shared environments. The fingerprint reader uses optical scanning technology to achieve excellent image quality, a large capture area and superior reliability. The silicone coating allows it to make readings accurately, regardless of the placement angle of the finger.
Simply place the finger on the reader window. The reader will automatically capture and encrypt the fingerprint image before sending it to the DigitalPersona Finger Jet biometric engine for verification. A red flash will indicate that the image has been captured.
Key features:
- Small form factor
- Excellent image quality
- Fast image capture
- Encrypted fingerprint data
- Compatible with DigitalPersona Biometric SDKs
Types of scanners
Optical Reader
An optical reader makes a photocopy of the fingerprint, usually using an image sensor or light-sensitive microchip.
Capacitive Reader
Instead of light, these scanners use electricity, in a similar way to a touchscreen, to read the print pattern. Most smartphones use this type of fingerprint reader.
Ultrasonic Reader
These readers use sound waves. The hardware sends ultrasonic pulses to measure how much bounces back, which will outline the print pattern.
The HID DigitalPersona 4500 is an optical reader, using illuminated light to create a photocopy of the finger to match with the database.
Benefits of an optical reader
- High accuracy
- Long-term stability
- Easy to use
- Non-intrusive
- Smaller storage space needed which reduces database memory use
If you’re interested in improving your authentication methods, chat to us today.
Benefits of Vorbeck’s HD4 harness in the law enforcement industry
Vorbeck’s HD4 harness is powered by Rajant’s InstaMesh technology, and automatically forms a secure, self-healing network with other HD4 harnesses and Drop Nodes. This helps with situation transparency between SWAT, bomb squad and crowd control operations, as it keeps them all connected with the ability to share data.
The InstaMesh technology allows both harnesses and nodes to connect on an ad-hoc basis, in challenging environments that usually have no RF signal, such as tunnels, skyscrapers and basements. Workforces in the law enforcement industry often find themselves in locations where signal is sparse, it’s essential for them to maintain communication to ensure the safety of the team.
The built-in mesh radio can stream real-time, high-quality video, audio and data from the situation to Command. The vest has built-in Wi-Fi, which allows any team member with a mobile device to access another team member’s video stream, creating the highest level of situational awareness. The network is secure, meaning it’s only accessible to those who have been authorised to do so.
Vorbeck’s drop nodes are also powered by InstaMesh and can be deployed as a low profile package to confined spaces and tunnels. These drop nodes can be used to extend the range of the mesh network and contain a high definition Pan/Tilt/Zoom camera that can be remotely controlled by smartphones and computers. This allows the camera to act as a watchman that can be left at a station to observe a hallway or area of interest, without the need for man power, and prevents officers being exposed to unnecessary danger.
The audio system built into the vest has two modes: push-to-talk and open-mic. These two modes can be switched over with a quick double tap of the button and back again with a single touch.
Both the harness and the Drop Nodes use rechargeable Li ion batteries that provide 8-10 hours of continuous power, which allows these systems highly mobile and flexible in a number of environmental situations. The used batteries can be swapped for fresh batteries by deployed users when necessary.
HID NOMAD 30 – Pocket Reader
The HID NOMAD 30 Pocket Reader is a fingerprint reader made for Windows, Android and iOS. The reader can be bundled with smartphones, tablets or laptops to provide rapid identification, ideal for use in the law enforcement industry as well as retail, medical, hospitality and education. Unlike many other fingerprint readers, this is a more affordable option, whilst maintaining the features and quality that the more expensive readers have.
The device will make the officer’s job easier, by allowing them to identify subjects without having to bring them back to a police station.
When in use, the user can open the app and the device will show two illuminated ‘landing lights’ that indicate that the device is ready to capture. There is an automated capture feature that captures the fingerprint instantaneously and ensures the image reaches the standard of quality that the FBI needs.
The patented, capacitive thin film transistor enables the device to capture images that remain within the FBI standards even in direct sunlight. This technology is also capable of capturing high quality images when the fingers are dirty, greasy or stained, which is usually something that delays the process.
The haptic motor in this device will alert you when the image has been successfully captured, by sending a vibration. This feature works hand in hand with the ‘landing lights’ and will inform officers that their image has been successfully captured without having to try a few times to get it right. Within the law enforcement industry this is an extremely useful feature, as it means officers do not have to be in close contact with potentially dangerous criminals for any longer than they need to.
The surface of the capacitive sensor of the pocket reader includes a glass coating that covers the sensor. This makes it more robust and resistant to scratches or impact. The sensor has been thoroughly tested with up to 1 million touches with no decrease in performance. Along with this, the NOMAD 30 has an Ingress Protection rating of 65 that protects against dust and water, making it perfect for a number of industries due to its resilience.
Download our spec sheet here – https://www.cmitechnology.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/08/cid-nomad-30-module-ds-en.pdf
